Sengbusch Family Speaks Out, Officer in Critical Condition

BUFFALO, NY -- The family of Gary Sengbusch released a statement Saturday night thanking Western New York for supporting their family after a car crash left the Buffalo Police officer in critical condition Friday morning.

"As a family we are humbled by the tremendous support of our family, friends and all of the outstanding men and women of the Buffalo Police Department. Gary is in the fight of his life and we could not be more grateful to the first responders and to the staff at ECMC. They are truly second to none. Please keep Gary in your thoughts and prayers. He has a long battle ahead of him but we are certain he will succeed."

Buffalo Police say Officer Gary Sengbusch, who worked out of the C-District, was off duty when he was driving down Main Street Friday night around 2 am.

That's when Anthony Thompson, 22, drove down Ferry Street and eventually collided with Sengbusch's car near the intersection. Buffalo Police Commissioner Dan Derenda says Thompson has been arrested.

"He's been charged with DWI. Five counts of vehicular assault in the first degree, and the 'V and T' charge of running the red light."

Sengbusch was taken to the hospital, and police say after several surgeries Friday, he is still in critical condition.

"He's an outstanding dedicated officer, and at this time I was just at the hospital with the Mayor visiting him and his family," said Derenda.

Mayor Byron Brown says the officer's family is a strong one as they deal with this horrific circumstance.

"They're people of faith. Certainly our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Officer Sengbusch, and Officer Sengbusch for his complete recovery."

A 20 year old female passenger from Thompson's car is listed in grave condition.

Thompson had 4 passengers in his car, they are all in their 20's. No names have been released.